This Caramel Cake with Apple Cider Whipped Cream brings together the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel and the warm, cozy notes of apple cider and cinnamon. Starting with a simple yellow cake mix, this recipe transforms into an elegant dessert with a homemade touch by adding luscious caramel and a light, spiced whipped cream. Perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or simply when you’re craving a comforting treat, this cake is easy to make yet bursting with flavors that celebrate the season.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box for preparation, usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 jar (16 ounces) caramel topping
Apple Cider Whipped Cream
- 1½ cups (187.5 g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1 container (16 ounces) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 tablespoon apple cider
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
For the Cake:
- Prepare the Cake: Follow the instructions on the yellow cake mix box to prepare the batter. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake according to the package instructions. Once the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Add Caramel Topping: While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the cake’s surface. Pour the caramel topping evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. This will infuse the cake with rich caramel flavor.
For the Apple Cider Whipped Cream:
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, thawed whipped topping, apple cider, and ground cinnamon. Use a spatula to fold the ingredients together until well blended and smooth.
- Chill: For best results, refrigerate the apple cider whipped cream for at least 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together and to ensure a firm, spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely and the caramel has soaked in, spread the apple cider whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake. For an extra touch, drizzle additional caramel or sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon over the whipped topping if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve the cake immediately, or refrigerate it for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Apple Cider Caramel Cake, featuring a rich, moist caramel cake paired with a velvety apple cider whipped cream. The delicate hint of cinnamon and the tart undertones of apple cider in the cream perfectly complement the sweetness of the caramel, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you’re celebrating the season or seeking a comforting dessert, this cake offers a delightful balance of warmth and spice. Simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Savor the essence of autumn in each mouthwatering bite!